Governor Acharya Devvrat administers oath at Raj Bhavan as leaders recall Ajit Pawar’s legacy after fatal aircraft crash; CM Vishnu Deo Sai conveys condolences and best wishes
TFP Bureau, Mumbai/Raipur, January 31, 2026:
In a moment marked by solemnity and resolve, Smt. Sunetra Ajit Pawar was sworn in as the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra at Raj Bhavan on Friday, even as the state continues to grieve the tragic loss of former Deputy Chief Minister Shri Ajit Pawar, who died in a fatal aircraft crash earlier this week. The oath of office was administered by Governor Shri Acharya Devvrat in the presence of Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Eknath Shinde, members of the Council of Ministers, senior officials and dignitaries.
The ceremony reflected both continuity of governance and remembrance, as leaders across party lines paid tributes to Ajit Pawar’s public life and contributions while expressing confidence that Smt. Sunetra Ajit Pawar would carry forward a development-oriented agenda with sensitivity and determination. Ajit Pawar’s untimely demise in the crash sent shockwaves across Maharashtra and the country, with condolences pouring in from national and state leaders, cutting across political affiliations.
Extending his condolences and best wishes, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said the nation had lost a seasoned mass leader in Ajit Pawar, whose commitment to farmers’ welfare, infrastructure development and grassroots governance left a lasting imprint on Maharashtra’s political landscape. He described the tragedy as an irreparable loss to public life and conveyed his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi wished Sunetra Pawar Ji as she assumes office as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the first woman to hold this responsibility. “I am confident she will work tirelessly for the welfare of the people of the state and fulfil the vision of the late Ajitdada Pawar”, Shri Modi stated.
Shri Modi posted on X: “Best wishes to Sunetra Pawar Ji as she begins her tenure as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the first woman to hold this responsibility. I am confident she will work tirelessly for the welfare of the people of the state and fulfil the vision of the late Ajitdada Pawar.”
At the same time, Chief Minister Shri Sai congratulated Smt. Sunetra Ajit Pawar on taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister, calling her elevation a historic moment for Maharashtra. He expressed confidence that under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis, she would provide renewed direction and momentum to the state’s development journey. He noted that her assumption of office symbolised resilience and continuity at a time of collective grief.
Leaders present at the swearing-in emphasised that the government remains committed to stability and public service, even as it honours Ajit Pawar’s legacy. Tributes highlighted his administrative acumen, deep connect with the farming community and decisive leadership during challenging phases. The state government observed moments of silence and remembrance, underscoring the gravity of the loss.
As Maharashtra moves forward, the dual moment—of mourning and milestone—has underscored the resolve of the government to uphold democratic institutions, ensure continuity of governance and pursue inclusive development, while paying homage to a leader whose contributions will be remembered for years to come.
